IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? A new schedule has been announced for labour strikes at Australia’s airports by Department of Immigration and Border Protection workers.

What does the change mean? Travellers should plan for delays during the new period of work stoppages, 29 March through 4 April.

  • Implementation timeframe: 29 March through 4 April.
  • Who is affected: All travellers entering and exiting through Australian international airports.
  • Impact on processing times: Services at airports will be slowed.
  • Business impact: The strikes may cause travel delays.
  • Next steps: Travellers should leave additional time when arriving at airports and planning connecting flights.

Background: The planned work stoppages were originally scheduled to begin Tuesday, but were postponed in the wake of the attacks in Belgium.

The schedule for Sydney Airport is:

Dates Sydney Airport Strike Schedule
29 March 5 am to 1 pm; 4 pm to midnight
30 March Midnight to 12.15 am; 5 am to 1 pm; 4 pm to midnight
31 March Midnight to 12.15 am
1 April 5 am to 1 pm; 4 pm to midnight
2 April Midnight to 12.15 am
3 April 5 am to 1 pm; 4 pm to midnight
4 April Midnight to 12.15 am; 5 am to 1 pm; 4 pm to midnight

The full schedule for all airports may be viewed here.

BAL Analysis: Travellers should remember to arrive at the airport early and plan for delays in moving through immigration and customs controls.

This alert has been provided by BAL Australia. For additional information, please contact australia@bal.com.

MARN: 9683856

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